Can I plug my generator directly into my house?

• <div><p>No, you cannot plug a generator directly into a wall outlet in your home. Plugging in a generator without an interlocking kit, extension cord, or wall outlet receptacle is incredibly dangerous and can cause back-feeding—power from the generator back-feeds into utility lines. Also, if the main power comes back on while your generator is on, it could damage the generator and cause a house fire.</p></div>

What size generator do I need for a 1500-square-foot house?

• <div><p>A 1,500 square foot home will likely need a 15kW to 20kW generator. When deciding on whole-house generator size, add up the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-many-watts-house.htm">total wattage</a> of the devices that you’d like to continue running during a power outage. That way, you can ensure you purchase a generator that can power your necessary appliances or medical equipment during an electrical emergency.</p></div>

How do I know what size of whole house generator to choose?

• <div><p>Generators are usually sized by running watts and starting watts. Ideally, you’ll want a generator that can offer both the necessary running watts and starting watts for everything you need to power without going beyond 90% of its capacity. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/electrical-load-calculation.htm">Calculate your home’s electrical load</a> based on the breakers in your home or adding up the appliance and lighting needs of connected rooms.</p></div>

Can a natural gas generator work without electricity or in a power outage?

• <div><p>Yes, natural gas generators can work without electricity. Natural gas generators are a common type of backup or whole-house generator that operates when the electrical grid isn’t working. The trick is using a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-install-generator-transfer-switch.htm?entry_point_id=33797025">transfer switch</a> (which usually needs to be installed with the generator) that safely switches the home electrical system from the power grid to generator power when needed.</p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Colman, SD

Q: Should I buy a solar battery or a generator?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re deciding between a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/solar-batteries-vs-generators.htm">solar battery versus a generator</a> for the best backup power solution, you can take a few factors into consideration. Solar batteries are quiet while generators can be quite loud. Generators have a lower up-front cost, but they require fuel and ongoing maintenance while solar batteries are more expensive but don&rsquo;t have many ongoing costs. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Colman, SD

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Colman, SD is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Generator Install needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Generator Install companies in Colman, SD is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Generator Install needs.

Last update on November 29, 2025

Reviewed in November 2025
Jared was here and installed laminate (lvp) flooring in our kitchen and entryway. We are so greatful he was available on such short notice. His fees were very reasonable, he arrived at the agreed upon time, and finished the project in record time (as to how long it would have taken us...
Neighborhood Handyman LLC
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Reviewed in April 2025
We recently had all the windows in our house replaced through Mad City. We were so impressed with the entire experience, from sales to completion! The windows are amazing quality, and we could tell a difference in our house within an hour of getting home. And in an old, slightly off kilter...
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in November 2022
The Koala team was a great overall experience. Sales associate was great with asking questions, & reciprocating with solutions. He was responsive through the process & wasn't pushy as I figured other details out. The installation team took pictures of space prior to installation...
Koala Insulation of Sioux Falls
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Reviewed in May 2019
h vac install went quick and easy
Rose Spray Foam
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Reviewed in September 2018
Project went as planned and was completed on time. Happy with siding installation and removal and cleanup after work was done.
Hedge Construction
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Reviewed in August 2018
The 3 men that installed the windows were very efficient and did a great job.
Your Home Improvement Company, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2018
The windows they sold arent living up to their demonstrations. I took an infrared thermometer reading of new windows vs old and there wasnt much difference in how much cold was being let in. The installation crew tracked everywhere in the house, and left a nail and screw on the floor which I...
Your Home Improvement Company
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Reviewed in November 2015
The initial consultation where an estimate was given was excellent. Great communication and explanation of what needed to be updated. Throughout the process of installation communication was not always the best, but the services performed made up for it. Everyone was very friendly, but as the...
ALL-PHASE ELECTRIC
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Reviewed in May 2014
WE called SolarX and they came the same day to give us the estimate. They scheduled the work for the following week. The estimator was prompt ,courteous and professional ,knowledgeable a and helpful in selecting the most appropriate film for our windows. The installer arrived at the scheduled...
Solar X Window Film Systems
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Reviewed in December 2012
They arrived a little late but did call to notify me. They took off their shoes without me asking. They moved all the furniture themselves, the holes cut were accurate and the speakers looked good when installed. They tested everything and had to do some minor adjustments to wires as one...
HOME DEFINITION
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Find Generator install pros in Colman

Eie Electric

4.93(

)

•Approved Pro

Eie Electric

4.93(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

4 years of experience

I pride myself on my professionalism, as well as my ability to complete every job to the homeowner's total satisfaction. I never leave a job unfinished, or a homeowner not 100% satisfied with my level of service - Call today!

"Did an excellent job. I'm very happy."

Scott C on May 2022

"Did an excellent job. I'm very happy."

Scott C on May 2022

Regal Electric

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Regal Electric

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

44 local quotes requested

1 years of experience

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Great guys, inspections took longer than expected but for the most part everything went well. We didn’t just upgrade the electric box but did a voltage increase. I’ll definitely be going back to them for any other electrical needs."

Rachael D on November 2025

"Great guys, inspections took longer than expected but for the most part everything went well. We didn’t just upgrade the electric box but did a voltage increase. I’ll definitely be going back to them for any other electrical needs."

Rachael D on November 2025

Sales, Service & Rebuilding of Antique and Classic Car Components such as, Carburetors, Starters, Generators, Fuel Pumps, Double & Single Action Fuel Pump Rebuilding, Water Pumps, Hydraulic Top Pumps, Distributors, and DELCO Knee Action Shocks, We also carry a complete line of NOS and NORS parts. We offer FREE Technical advice for any YEAR Classic Car 609-462-7412

"Beware. They charged me double shipping even after I told them I would wait so I wouldn’t have to pay two shipping fees. The last item was a fuel pump that I had a problem with. I have made 4 calls to ask for help with no return call. Poor"

Frank H on July 2020

"Beware. They charged me double shipping even after I told them I would wait so I wouldn’t have to pay two shipping fees. The last item was a fuel pump that I had a problem with. I have made 4 calls to ask for help with no return call. Poor"

Frank H on July 2020

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

No, you cannot plug a generator directly into a wall outlet in your home. Plugging in a generator without an interlocking kit, extension cord, or wall outlet receptacle is incredibly dangerous and can cause back-feeding—power from the generator back-feeds into utility lines. Also, if the main power comes back on while your generator is on, it could damage the generator and cause a house fire.

A 1,500 square foot home will likely need a 15kW to 20kW generator. When deciding on whole-house generator size, add up the total wattage of the devices that you’d like to continue running during a power outage. That way, you can ensure you purchase a generator that can power your necessary appliances or medical equipment during an electrical emergency.

Generators are usually sized by running watts and starting watts. Ideally, you’ll want a generator that can offer both the necessary running watts and starting watts for everything you need to power without going beyond 90% of its capacity. Calculate your home’s electrical load based on the breakers in your home or adding up the appliance and lighting needs of connected rooms.

Yes, natural gas generators can work without electricity. Natural gas generators are a common type of backup or whole-house generator that operates when the electrical grid isn’t working. The trick is using a transfer switch (which usually needs to be installed with the generator) that safely switches the home electrical system from the power grid to generator power when needed.

If you’re deciding between a solar battery versus a generator for the best backup power solution, you can take a few factors into consideration. Solar batteries are quiet while generators can be quite loud. Generators have a lower up-front cost, but they require fuel and ongoing maintenance while solar batteries are more expensive but don’t have many ongoing costs.

The Colman, SD homeowners’ guide to generator installs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

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•
Nov 25, 2025Nov 25, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
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Whole home generator installations require a professional hand. Read this guide to help you decide which generator is best for your home.
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Gas Generator vs. Natural Gas Generator: What’s the Difference?
Before deciding between a gas generator and a natural gas generator, explore the differences. Compare gas vs. natural gas generator with our informative guide.
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How to Use a Generator to Power Your House
Having a back-up power source in case of emergency is important. Here’s how to use a generator to power your house.